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Polyaluminum Sulfate Storage — PAS Chloride-Free Coagulant Tank Selection

Storing Polyaluminum Sulfate? Start Here

Polyaluminum sulfate (PAS) is a key player in water treatment, especially for utilities aiming to control lead and copper levels in their systems. This coagulant is a great alternative to polyaluminum chloride (PACl) because it doesn't add much chloride, which can cause corrosion issues. PAS is typically used in drinking water systems where maintaining a low chloride-to-sulfate ratio is crucial to prevent lead release. When storing PAS, it's important to consider its mildly acidic nature and its compatibility with various materials.

Can you store it in a poly tank?

Yes, poly tanks are suitable for storing polyaluminum sulfate. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) tanks are the standard choice, as they handle the chemical's acidity well without degrading. Ensure your setup includes PVC or CPVC piping and EPDM gaskets for optimal performance.

Key Issue: Material Compatibility

While PAS is safe for poly tanks, avoid using carbon steel, galvanized steel, or aluminum, as these materials can corrode or contaminate the product. Stick to HDPE tanks and compatible fittings like polypropylene and EPDM gaskets to ensure longevity and safety.

The safety that actually matters

  • Use HDPE tanks with PVC or CPVC piping.
  • Ensure EPDM gaskets are used for sealing.
  • Avoid carbon steel and aluminum to prevent corrosion.

Common questions

Is PAS safe for drinking water systems?
Yes, PAS is a preferred coagulant for systems sensitive to chloride, helping to control lead and copper levels.
What materials should I avoid with PAS?
Avoid carbon steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum, as they can corrode or contaminate the solution.
What type of tank is best for storing PAS?
HDPE tanks are recommended due to their compatibility with PAS's mildly acidic nature.

Polyaluminum Sulfate storage tanks from OneSource

For polyaluminum sulfate storage, specify HDLPE_OR_XLPE rated to specific gravity 1.9. Verified, compatibility-matched options:

Confirm chemical compatibility and a ZIP freight quote with our team at 866-418-1777.

Designing the storage system, not just picking a tank?

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Sources & References

All compatibility ratings, hazard classifications, and chemical identifiers on this page are sourced from authoritative third-party publications. Verify against the original references before final specification.

  1. Snyder Industries Chemical Resistance Recommendations — system-of-construction guidance for polyethylene chemical-storage tanks at industrial ASTM 1.9 SG design rating. SNY-3041 Chemical Resistance Chart. Snyder Industries, current edition. Resin + fitting + gasket + bolt MOC matrix.
  2. Equistar Technical Tip — Chemical Resistance of Polyethylene — LDPE / MDPE / HDPE rating chart by concentration and temperature, distributed by Enduraplas. enduraplas.com (PDF). Equistar polyethylene resin chemical-resistance data, distributed via Enduraplas.
  3. NFPA 704: Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response. nfpa.org. NFPA 704 'fire diamond' health/flammability/instability/special-hazard rating system (0–4 scale).
  4. UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), current revision. unece.org/transport/ghs. GHS pictograms, signal words, and H-statement codes referenced in this guide.
  5. ASTM D1998 — Standard Specification for Polyethylene Upright Storage Tanks, current edition. astm.org. Cited as the design-specific-gravity standard (typically 1.9 SG) for industrial chemical-service polyethylene tanks.
  6. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards — occupational exposure limits, PPE, and IDLH data for Polyaluminum Sulfate. cdc.gov/niosh/npg. CDC / NIOSH chemical-specific occupational-safety reference.

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